In December 2013, a new chapter began for Deirdre Moriarty, originally from Ireland, as she moved to Batam, Indonesia with her husband Tom, who took an overseas post with his company. Motivated by her background in the non-profit sector in Ireland, she sought a meaningful way to contribute towards her new community.
By January 2014, she had co-founded Batam Women Build, a dynamic fundraising group composed of expatriates and locals. This dedicated team partnered with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Singapore to fundraise and construct homes for those in need.
Driven by a desire to connect with a reputable charity, she found an ally in Habitat for Humanity, a globally recognized and respected non-profit organization. The welcoming and supportive staff in Batam further solidified her commitment to making a tangible difference in the community.
In January 2014, Batam Women Build was formed, consisting of around 15 women, primarily from the expatriate community, along with some local ladies and one male member. As expatriates, the group was driven by a collective goal: to give back to the community that had so warmly welcomed them. Living in Indonesia is viewed as a privilege, and the group aimed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families through their efforts.
During the interview, Deirdre reflected on the group's fluid membership, emphasizing the unique challenges and opportunities that come with expat life. "Currently, our Batam Women's Build group has a dynamic and ever-changing roster of volunteers. As many of our members are expatriates, our membership is quite fluid. There's a small core group who have been living in Batam for some time, while others join for the duration of their work contracts and then move on," she explained.
Having lived in Batam for almost 11 years herself, Deirdre noted, "This is really what expat life is like. I, too, will be returning to Ireland shortly. However, we have a new team who will take over the fundraising group and, hopefully, continue to provide funds to build more houses in the future. As this new team establishes itself, I'm certain they will gather more members along the way."
When asked about the fundraising events organized in aid of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Deirdre shared, "Over the years, we have had a wide range of activities, from bake sales, bazaars, cookbooks, art exhibitions and sales, yoga events, silent auctions, and ladies luncheons – you name it, we've fundraised in so many different ways. Any excuse to get people together can be turned into a fundraiser."
She highlighted the group's biggest event: the annual Christmas Night Market, which takes place at Anchor Café and Roastery in Batam. "This is a very important item on the fundraising calendar and an evening of great fun. Ruth Evans, one of our founding members, started it in 2015 with just one table selling some baked goods and homemade items. Now we have up to 25 tables selling all sorts of local homemade and handmade products and crafts, supported by both the local and expat communities equally," she added.
One of her favourite memories with Habitat for Humanity is what they refer to as Build Day. "This is the day when our group gets the opportunity to volunteer to help the Habitat staff and the recipient family physically build their house. It’s definitely the best day on the calendar, and the 10 volunteer builder spots are filled very quickly. On Build Day, we get the chance to meet the family who will benefit from the new homes and get a feel for the wider community in which the family lives. It is a tough working day, but brilliant fun, and everybody goes home understanding the enormous impact our small organization has on families in Batam."
Reflecting on her experiences, Deirdre shared, "Being involved with Batam Women Build and Habitat for Humanity has been the most rewarding and satisfying experience. It has been a privilege to work alongside the local community members and the recipient family members whose house we are helping them to build. Providing shelter and safety to fellow human beings – what an honour! Build Day is both a thrilling and humbling experience."
In her 11 years of volunteering with Habitat and 24 houses built, Deirdre has learned several life lessons. "People are always willing to help support a good cause – I am always in awe of our supporters and their generosity – without whom we could not build any houses. So long as fundraising activities are fun, people will participate and support generously. We may all need a helping hand at some time in our lives – never miss the opportunity to help when you are able. As a volunteer, I honestly believe that I get more back from the process than those we are supporting."
Looking to the future, she expressed hope for the local community and Batam Women Build. "As our new team continues to establish and grow, I have great hope that the future for Batam Women Build and Habitat for Humanity collaboration will grow and evolve over the next few years."
Curious about building homes and contributing to a community in Batam? Explore volunteer opportunities with Habitat for Humanity Singapore's Batam Build programme. Click here to find out more.